Regulatory fairness hearings scheduled here

National Ombudsman Brian Castro will convene a regional hearing for small business owners, representatives from trade associations and other members of the small business community regarding federal regulations and enforcement and compliance actions impacting America’s small businesses.

The hearing will take place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 14 at the El Paso County Citizens Service Center Building, 1675 Garden of the Gods Road.

The national ombudsman convenes regulatory fairness hearings and roundtables across the country to give small business owners a means to comment on unfair enforcement actions, government audits and excessive fines or regulations. It is anticipated that during this hearing small business stakeholders will testify on a number of wide-ranging issues.

Issues reported by participants undergo a high-level fairness review at the appropriate federal agency, and the Office of the National Ombudsman works with its federal agency partners to address those concerns, reduce regulatory burdens and help small businesses grow.

Members of the small business community, trade organizations and media are encouraged to attend. RSVPs should be made to Juanita Dailey at 481-4877 x124, or by email at juanitad@navsys.com (preferable) by Friday. Those wishing to testify must have registered and provided written statements in advance.

Anyone desiring confidentiality may request that his or her name not be released and may submit written testimony in lieu of a public appearance at the hearing. Those wishing to put testimony on the record on a confidential basis may do so by offering it in writing in advance.

For additional information about the Office of the National Ombudsman, visit online at sba.gov/ombudsman. The SBA’s programs and services are provided to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities will be made when requested one week in advance. To make such requests, contact FeliciaBarbera@elpasoco.com or call 667-3700.

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